MSU Employees, Don’t Fall Behind!

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S., yet many Missouri State University employees are falling behind in preventive screenings. March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to take action and prioritize your health.

Why is screening so important? When detected early, colorectal cancer is about 90% treatable. However, benchmarking data shows that MSU employees are not getting screened as often as recommended, putting themselves at unnecessary risk.

Who Needs to Get Screened?

The U.S. Preventative Services Task Force recommends that adults ages 45 to 75 be screened for colorectal cancer. If you’re 45 or older and haven’t scheduled a screening, now is the time to do so!

Screening Options

There are several screening methods available:

• Colonoscopy: The most thorough option, allowing doctors to detect and remove polyps before they turn cancerous. Mercy provides expert colonoscopy services—learn more here.
• Stool-Based Tests (e.g., Cologuard®): A convenient, non-invasive option for at-home testing.

Missouri State University’s medical plan covers 100% of preventive colorectal screenings with in-network providers, including less invasive options like Cologuard®.

Preventive vs. Diagnostic Screenings – Know the Difference

• Preventive Screening: For individuals with no symptoms or family history of colorectal issues.
• Diagnostic Testing: For those with symptoms (rectal bleeding, pain, diarrhea) or a history of polyps or gastrointestinal disease.
• Important: If polyps are found during a screening, the procedure may be reclassified as diagnostic, potentially impacting insurance coverage. Always check with Med-Pay to confirm details.

Critical Illness Insurance – Financial Protection for You & Your Family

If diagnosed with invasive cancer, Allstate Critical Illness Insurance provides:

• $100 wellness reimbursement for preventive screenings like colonoscopies.
• Financial benefits of $10,000 (Plan 1) or $20,000 (Plan 2) to help cover medical costs, household expenses, and more.
• Critical illness may only be elected during open enrollment (November 1- December 1), or within 31 days of a qualifying event.

Take Action During Awareness Month!

• Don’t wait—schedule your screening this March!
• Visit Mercy’s Colonoscopy Services for more information.
• Check with Med-Pay to confirm coverage details.

Early detection saves lives! Take charge of your health and get screened today.

Get all HR news, benefits insights, and upcoming professional development opportunities, follow the HR Blog.

Get employee wellness news, follow the wellness blog.